Taiwan: President Urges Beijing Not To Be A ’Source of Conflict’ Worldwide

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen urged China to be a "responsible" country on the world stage rather than provoking unnecessary conflict, amid worsening relations between Beijing and the island it considers a renegade province.

Tsai made the remarks during a television speech on Wednesday, Taiwan's National Day, which marks the 107th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of China, as the island is officially known.

The Taiwan President said the island had no intention of recklessly provoking China but said Beijing should also avoid being a "source of conflict."

"Recently, China's verbal attacks, military threats and diplomatic suppression have not only challenged cross-strait relations but also challenged the peace and stability across the strait," she said.

Tsai said she would work to strengthen the island's national security in response to the increasing threats from Beijing, which she said had been exerting growing pressure on the island.

In September, the US approved a $330 million arms sale to Taiwan, primarily spare parts for the island's air force.